NSW ESL reintroduction onto insurance premiums

31 July 2017

On 30 May 2017, the NSW Government announced it will defer the introduction of the Fire and Emergency Services Levy (FESL) on council rates. The deferral of the reforms impacts the removal of ESL (Emergency Services Levy) - also referred to as FSL (Fire Services Levy) - from insurance premiums. Over the 2016 – 2017 financial year, we have been progressively removing ESL. The deferral of the reform means that we will soon recommence collection of ESL via relevant insurance premiums.

What does this mean for you?

You will now continue to see the ESL being collected as part of certain insurance premiums, including home, contents, motor and commercial property.

If you have paid your insurance premium and were not charged ESL and then make a change during the policy term, you will be charged ESL on any additional premium that is generated as a result of the change.

What is ESL?

ESL is a separate component of your insurance premium. ESL is a levy we charge to help us meet our funding obligations for NSW Emergency Services, including Fire and Rescue NSW, the NSW Rural Fire Services and the NSW State Emergency Services. We determine the amount of ESL on your insurance policy.

Please get in touch if you would like further information.

If you have any questions about how this change will impact the cost of your insurance, please contact us.

If you would like more information on the ESL and the reforms, please contact: